Hello Neighbors!
After what felt like a very cold winter, I will admit that the sight of tulips and daffodils has cheered me up considerably and re-energized me to continue the hard work of bettering the lives of my constituents and all Michiganders as your state representative. To that end, I wanted to give you a thorough update on what I have been up to in Lansing recently as well as a rundown on the many inspiring events I have attended throughout the district supporting the good work of so many of you.
How I voted:
HBs 4027-28:
I recently voted NO on House Bills 4027-28, which would repeal the 2023 “Solar Siting” law, Public Acts 233 and 234 of 2023. Last term, we passed HBs 5120-5121 to move solar and wind siting approval to the Michigan Public Service Commission, but only in the event that developers are unable to reach agreements with local townships and authorities on a range of community and environmental issues first. I supported this legislation because we unfortunately saw many negotiating problems between renewable energy companies and communities. Problems on both sides led to requirements and moratoriums that often amounted to zoning that essentially blocked all renewable energy projects from moving forward or resulted in developers abandoning projects.
We all care about the environment and preserving valuable farmland. But to ensure that Michigan is able to meet our resource adequacy needs and the new renewable portfolio standards, it is absolutely essential to improve the siting of renewable projects with clear protections, local input and community benefits. The bills repealing the laws do not help our transition from fossil fuels to clean energy.
HBs 4027-28 would be a serious impediment to new energy development and would strip property rights from property owners. I have also assured all my townships that I will be there to support you in the event that a developer does not work adequately with local government and follow the statute, which demands they work toward community buy-in.
HBs 4062-64:
I am proud to have played a role in passing HBs 4062-64. These bills were introduced with the explicit intention of establishing a two-year cooling-off period during which state legislators, the Governor, the Lt. Governor and principal department heads may not engage in any lobbying activities after leaving office — whether due to resignation, loss of election or the conclusion of their term.
I supported this legislation because of the pressing issue of the revolving door in Lansing. It is essential that we implement statutory guardrails around when state-elected and appointed officials can directly lobby following their time in office. Legislative transparency and accountability are vital components of a strong democracy. My colleagues and I hope that this legislation will reduce the potential for elected officials to be influenced by future financial incentives, encouraging them instead to prioritize the best interests of their constituents and, furthermore, all Michiganders.
HB 4032:
I voted YES on and co-sponsored HB 4032, which renews the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact and removed the sunset clause from the original law. Last term, I sponsored this bill (HB 5964) and championed it through the House with 105 YES votes. Because this allows physicians who are licensed to practice in one member state to practice in other member states, I worked with my Republican colleagues to have one of their members sponsor it this term and get it through the House. Unfortunately, the bill did not make it out of the Senate.
Policy Update:
Last month I introduced HB 4291, which strengthens the Workforce Opportunity Wage Act by making it crystal clear: an employer cannot pay an employee differently based on any protected attribute. Whether that’s religion, race, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, height, weight, marital status or any other characteristic protected under the law. Simply put, equal work deserves equal pay. My bill is a part of the Pay Equity Bill Package to help end wage discrimination here in Michigan.
I have taken part in multiple press conferences with my House Democratic Colleagues to continue uplifting the voices of all Michiganders. We are actively working on lowering costs, protecting our economy from potential tariffs and defending our fundamental freedoms.
DISTRICT UPDATES
To see ALL the events I have attended, take a look at my Facebook page at the link below:
But here are some particularly special highlights:
I had the pleasure of attending “Harmony in the Chill,” a captivating Woodwinds Quintet concert presented by the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra at Cleary University. Later that evening, I attended the premiere of the documentary “A Letter to the West Side,” which beautifully chronicles the story of Ann Arbor’s historically Black neighborhood. As someone who grew up in this area, I found it profoundly moving to deepen my understanding of the challenges the Black community has faced throughout history and continues to confront today.
I had the immense pleasure of welcoming 55 students from Light of the World Academy in Pinckney to the Capitol! It was a fantastic experience to take them onto the House floor, where only representatives are permitted to bring guests. Engaging with these bright young minds reminded me of the incredible privilege of my role and offered a glimpse into the promising future we hold. Looking into their eyes, I could see the potential of tomorrow’s leaders. What an inspiring day!
If your school or class is planning a visit to Lansing, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. We would love to arrange a memorable floor visit for your group!
Many of you know the Dexter Forum meets twice a month to discuss the happenings in Dexter, Washtenaw County and the state. I attend at least once a month if not twice and have greatly enjoyed getting to know the residents, business owners and local electeds who attend. We have great bipartisan conversations and I always walk away learning something new.
In March, the Washtenaw County Delegation and U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell hosted a town hall to hear from constituents about the chaos in Washington D.C., how federal jobs cuts are affecting residents, what will transpire if previously promised federal funding does not come through.
I got to participate in one of my favorite community events as a state representative, March is Reading Month. I went to read to elementary students at schools around our community, sharing with them my love of reading!
Upcoming In-District Events:
I am hosting my next coffee hour on Monday, May 19, where we will talk about upcoming legislation and answer any questions you have on topics most important to you.
When: Monday, May 19, from noon-1 p.m.
Where: Ann Arbor Traverwood Library, 3333 Traverwood Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Helpful Community Resources:
Do you know of any potholes that need fixing or road issues that need to be solved? Jackson, Livingston and Washtenaw County all have resources available for residents to report needed road repairs or hazards on their respective websites or by phone.
Jackson County Road Commission:
Report Road Issues: (517) 788-4230
Current Projects:www.co.jackson.mi.us/3044/Current-Projects
Livingston County Road Commission:
Report Road Issues: https://seeclickfix.com/web_portal/MAw7iBstUbn7iKNEwLg6hNKc/report/category
Current Projects: https://livingstonroads.org/projects/
Washtenaw County Road Commission:
Report Road Issues:
www.wcroads.org/residents/report-an-issue/
Current Road Work and Construction: www.wcroads.org/road-work-construction/projects/
Weekly Road Work Schedule: www.wcroads.org/weekly-road-work-schedule/
Outside of House District 48:
For areas across Michigan, Michigan Department of Transportation also has a reporting tool for potholes.
www.michigan.gov/mdot/travel/commuters/potholes
Community Mental Health Services of Livingston County
Provides emergency services, assessment, health and medication services, client services management, individual and group therapy, assertive community treatment, older adult services, respite, substance abuse services, community supported living, wraparound and psychosocial rehabilitation to residents of Livingston County.
Emergency Services: (517) 546-4126
Website: www.cmhliv.org/index.htm
Washtenaw Community Mental Health
A 24-hour crisis services and mobile crisis team that can assist navigating mental health care services. You can call or text the CARES team at (734) 544-3050.
Website: www.washtenaw.org/839/Community-Mental-Health
Sincerely,
Jennifer Conlin
State Representative
House District 48